Books matching: renaissance inspired setting
4 result(s)
- #1
'Children of Earth and Sky' by Guy Gavriel Kay is a historical fantasy novel set in a reimagined world reminiscent of early modern Europe. The story follows a diverse cast of characters, including a spy, an artist, a pirate, and a Janissary, as their lives become intertwined in the aftermath of the fall of Sarantium to the Asharites. Kay expertly weaves together multiple storylines against the backdrop of political maneuvering, war tactics, and personal struggles, creating a rich and immersive narrative that explores themes of power, loyalty, and the impact of individual choices on the course of history. The writing style is described as poetic, emotionally resonant, and deceptively simple, with well-researched historical details that bring the 15th-century setting to life.
It seemed the ambassador was to perform a triple obeisance—two separate times!—when finally invited to approach the imperial throne. This was, the very tall official escorting him explained, to be don... - #2
The Councillor by E.J. Beaton is a Machiavellian fantasy tale dominated by political intrigue, where the protagonist, Lysande Prior, a scholar, is thrust into a position of power after the assassination of her queen. As she navigates the complex world of court politics and power struggles, she must uncover the truth behind the murder while also deciding on the next ruler. The story is driven by a rich prose style that slowly reveals information while expertly interweaving plot progression, leading to unexpected twists and a climactic ending that leaves readers on the edge of their seats.
The shape of a crown stood out in the emerald wax of the seal, and Lysande glanced at it once before looking away, staring at anything but that envelope. She raised her vial and drank. Gold tinged the... - #3
'Or What You Will' by Jo Walton is a unique and inventive novel that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. The story follows Sylvia, an aging writer, as she navigates her final days in Florence while working on her last book. The narrative is told from the perspective of an imaginary friend or muse who resides in Sylvia's head and becomes the characters in her stories. As Sylvia grapples with mortality, the muse seeks to find a way for them to achieve immortality by integrating themselves into her fantasy world. The book seamlessly weaves between Sylvia's real-life experiences in Florence and the fantastical alternate world she is creating, filled with historical figures, Shakespearean characters, and Victorian elements.
Orsino, Duke of Illyria, is holding the head of a dying mare. They have both been up all night. The mare has given birth to a spindly chestnut foal, with white mane and tail, just like his mother. Ors... - #4
'Wolf of the Steppes' by Harold Lamb is a collection of adventure stories featuring the protagonist Khlit the Cossack, a veteran warrior known for his cunning and wit. Set in the historical East during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, the stories follow Khlit as he navigates through various challenges and adversaries, showcasing his strategic prowess and independence. Harold Lamb's writing style is described as engaging and immersive, offering readers a glimpse into a world filled with clashing steel, freezing winds, and exotic locations like Russia, Mongolia, China, and India.